Chapter 4Grounded at the Finish Line

So that's why Mom was posting on Facebook these past few days, bragging about sending me on a trip.

She was just putting up a front to provoke Auntie Wang.

It all made sense now.

Chloe was indignant: "That's too much. What kind of mom is so utilitarian?"

"If I scored 1540, my mom would be grinning from ear to ear."

"She'd brag to everyone, even the neighborhood dogs would know how well I did."

Her words made me laugh through my tears.

She picked up her phone: "How about this, I'll ask my parents to buy you a ticket. We'll be frugal these few days and deal with it when we get back."

I stopped her hand: "No, Chloe. Your parents work hard too."

Chloe's family wasn't as well-off as mine. I really didn't want to burden them.

"I'll ask other relatives."

Just then, my phone buzzed with messages.

In the "Happy Family" group chat, Mom posted a screenshot of my score.

Auntie (Dad's sister): [Sierra is amazing, such a high score!]

Mom: [@Everyone Sierra's performance this time is very disappointing.]

[She's traveling with a friend now. I've cut off her allowance.]

[If I find out anyone gives her money, we're cutting ties.]

[@Auntie Don't spoil the child.]

Mom always had the final say in the extended family. She had a stable job and connections.

Relatives often asked her for favors, so no one dared offend her easily.

I typed quickly, posting the screenshot of Mom promising the trip.

Me: [Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, I did my best. This score is the result of my hard work.]

[Mom proposed this trip. Now she cancelled my hotel and flight without warning. I'm stranded.]

Fingers still typing, suddenly, a message popped up.

You have been removed from the group chat.